Every game, including bingo, has etiquette rules. Sometimes they are written and sometimes they aren’t.  The etiquette rules for bingo are generally unwritten.
 

• The exception is smoking rules.  Designated areas are always set aside that permit smoking.  If you smoke, make sure you sit in that area.

• The most important unwritten rule is noise. It’s OK to talk to friends but talk quietly.  Loud talking will irritate players around you, especially if they are unable to hear the caller.

• The exception to making noise is celebrating if you win.  It’s OK to celebrate loudly if you win big, or someone else has a big win, but it’s best to wait until you find out if others also won.  If there were many winners your big celebration will look foolish.

• In general, a new bingo player should rent a bingo machine rather than try to daub paper.  The cost usually isn’t much different.  Why? Because beginners usually discover daubing isn’t easy because,  at the same time, the player must keep track of the winning pattern.  Never ask the caller to slow down.  If you can’t keep up, set aside some of your daubing paper.  It’s much better to rent a bingo machine until you have a better understanding of how the game works.

• Another rule is to silence your cell phone during the session.  If you get a call, leave the bingo hall to answer your phone.  In most bingo halls the caller will mention this rule before the session begins.

• The buy-in process can be confusing for beginners.  When you buy-in, be prepared in advance to quickly explain your buy-in decision, present your playing card, and money.  Prepare by reviewing the buy-in options before you get in line.  If someone ahead of you in line forgets something, it’s usually OK to hold their place in line while they get it.

• During the session, if the next bingo number is displayed before it is called, don’t yell bingo until it is called.  Doing that is very irritating to the other players.  Make sure you understand the winning bingo pattern.  Avoid yelling bingo for the wrong bingo pattern.

• Tipping is considered good etiquette, especially if you win a big bingo prize.  The amount is up to you.